Performances

In this play, we are following the Iraqw people from the moment of their creation by the sun god Loaa, through the fight for survival, against drought and other threats from outside. to modern times, represented and symbolised by the couple Simboya & Arii.

Water, with the power to give life, is always central to the plot. But the water is also inhabited by Netlangw, the water devil, which is always threatening death and destruction.

Through cunning and hard work, Simboya succeeds in marrying Arii. He is tested in many ways – not least, he must acquire enough wealth to pay the bride price. Simboya and Arii build their own home and have a son, Amo. Simboya and the Iraqw people are faced with new challenges when Simboya finds diamonds on the traditional grazing land of the people, and invites The Big Corporation to exploit the resources.

A dance and acrobatic performance. The performance was created in 2004 as a collaborative effort between Tumaini Group, Norwegian playwright Bjørn-Erik Hanssen(who has been living in Mbulu) and stage director Elin Hassel Iversen. The performance has been a tremendous success, having been shown on 3 tours in Norway in 2004, 2005 and 2008, with a total number of spectators of nearly 16 000. In 2004 the Tumaini troupe also toured Northern Tanzania, with a Kiswahili version, the success was as formidable.

Tumaini Group has with the Barabaig! performance demonstrated a unique ability to communicate with audiences of all ages. This in spite of the fact, that the topic of the performance is the serious hiv/aids threat. But Barabaig! is not a sad performance. 15 acrobats and dancers, aged 9 – 39, are celebrating life!

Tumaini Group performs Barabaig! In English (Europe) and in Kiswahili (Tanzania). Dances and rituals are shown in their tribal language, from where they originate, mainly Kiiraqw and Kidatoga (Kibarabaig), from Northern Tanzania. Barabaig! also contains dances from other parts of Tanzania.

Tumaini means hope.
Welcome to an engaging rendezvous with the cultures of Northern Tanzania! Karibuni wote!Read more about Barabaig! »

Tumaini Group in front of the Norwegian Parliament.Photo: Bjørn-Erik Hanssen

Tumaini Group has solid experience in creating different types of performances or shows of any length of time required. Often their talents are requested for an entertainment slot within a bigger event, such as a wedding, a campaign, theme days or festivals.

Tumaini Group receives many requests of this kind in the Manyara Region in Tanzania. Tumaini Group has also delivered this type of custom-made performances to many event hosts in Norway.